Heat exchange apparatus, system, and methods regarding same

ABSTRACT

A heat exchange apparatus (e.g., that may be used with an existing conduit that is in a flooded state and a heat pump apparatus or other HVAC apparatus of a thermal energy exchange system) includes at least one fluid source conduit configured to replace a section of the existing conduit that is in a flooded state and further configured to permit at least a portion of a fluid that is in the existing conduit to flow therethrough. The heat exchange apparatus further includes at least one heat transfer conduit having an inlet and outlet configured to be coupled to a heat pump apparatus to form a closed loop therewith. Further, the heat transfer conduit is further configured to communicate with the fluid source conduit for providing thermal energy exchange between the fluid flowing through the fluid source conduit and a fluid (e.g., a refrigerant, water or a water and anti-freeze mixture) flowing in the closed loop.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 60/429,160, entitled “A Geothermal Loopless Exchanger,”filed 27 Nov. 2002, wherein such document is incorporated herein byreference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to heating and coolingapparatus, methods, and systems. More particularly, the presentinvention pertains to the use of heat exchangers in such heating andcooling apparatus, methods, and systems.

[0003] Various geothermal heating and cooling systems for providingspace conditioning, including heating, cooling, and humidity control,are available. Such geothermal systems may also provide water heating,either to supplement or replace conventional water heaters, pool heatingand cooling, and refrigeration.

[0004] Many exemplary heat reclamation systems and earth exchangesystems (e.g., systems that are gravity flow, expensive, complicated,and require periodic cleaning and maintenance to avoid fouling (e.g.,contamination of water supplies) and/or degradation of heat recoveryefficiency) have been described. For example, various systems are shownin U.S. Pat. No. 4,321,798, entitled “Method for Heating Water Used inan Appliance Connected Into a Domestic Water Circuit and the Apparatusfor Carrying Out said Method,” to Palazzetti et al., issued 30 Mar.1982; U.S. Patent No. 4,352,391, entitled “Method and Apparatus forRecovering Heat in Waste Water,” to Jonsson, issued 5 Oct. 1982; U.S.Pat. No. 4,150,787, entitled “Method and Arrangement for Saving Energyin Preparing Hot Water for Household,” to Braathen, issued 24 Apr. 1979;U.S. Pat. No. 4,300,247, entitled “Energy Conservation in ShowerBathing,” to Berg, issued 17 Nov. 1981; U.S. Pat. No. 4,304,292,entitled “Shower,” to Cardone et al., issued 8 Dec. 1981; U.S. Pat. No.4,372,372, entitled “Shower Bath Economizer,” to Hunter, issued 8 Feb.1983; U.S. Pat. No. 6,041,613, entitled “Energy Conserving Heat PumpSystem,” to Morse et al., issued 28 Mar. 2000; U.S. Pat. No. 4,619,311,entitled “Equal Volume, Contraflow Heat Exchanger,” to Vasile et al.,issued 28 Oct. 1986; U.S. Pat. No. 4,538,418, entitled “Heat Pump,” toLawrence et al., issued 3 Sep. 1985; U.S. Pat. No. 6,138,744, entitled“Closed Loop Geothermal Heat Exchanger,” to Coffee, issued 31 Oct. 2000;U.S. Pat. No. 5,671,608, entitled “Geothermal Direct Expansion Heat PumpSystem,” to Wiggs et al., issued 30 Sep. 1997; and U.S. Pat. No.4,782,888, entitled “Community Thermal Energy Exchange System,” toBardenheier, issued 8 Nov. 1988.

[0005] A geothermal exchange system, at least in one embodiment, cangenerally be described as a system that simply transfers thermal energy(e.g., heat) from the ground or groundwater into a space (e.g., a spacebeing conditioned during the winter months) and/or transfers thermalenergy (e.g., heat) from the space (e.g., a space being conditioned inthe summer months) back into the ground or groundwater. As thetemperature of the ground or groundwater remains fairly constantthroughout the year, ranging from, for example, about 35° to 65°Fahrenheit in northern latitudes, operating efficiencies are highyear-round.

[0006] For example, in many instances, a geothermal exchange system mayinclude a distribution system (e.g., a fan and/or duct work or a waterdistribution system) that distributes thermal energy within a space orobject being heated or cooled; a ground or groundwater heat exchangerthat absorbs thermal energy (e.g., heat) from the earth or water, ordischarges thermal energy (e.g., heat) to the earth or water; and a heatpump apparatus that transfers thermal energy between the distributionsystem and the ground or groundwater heat exchanger.

[0007] Generally, the distribution system is typical of any heating orcooling system (e.g., a conventional furnace). For example, a fan movesheated or cooled air through ducts to individual spaces and returns airtherethrough to the geothermal exchange system.

[0008] The geothermal heat pump apparatus may be a water sourcegeothermal heat pump or a direct exchange (DX) heat pump. Water sourcegeothermal heat pumps extract energy from the ground or ground watersources. The water source geothermal heat pumps can either be used in anopen loop geothermal system or a closed loop geothermal system.

[0009] In the case of an open loop system, water from a water well,lake, river, pond or running spring (i.e., a water source) is piped tothe heat pump apparatus. The water goes through a small heat exchangerinside the heat pump apparatus located next to a refrigerant compressoralso inside the heat pump. The small heat exchanger of the heat pumpincludes coil pipes containing the refrigerant (e.g., freon) that arewrapped with a coil containing the ground water piped to the heat pumpapparatus. The ground water piped to the heat pump apparatus (e.g.,typically around 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit) is used to modify thetemperature of the refrigerant in coils of the small heat exchanger ofthe heat pump. After the water is pumped from the water source throughthe small water-to-refrigerant heat exchanger of the heat pump, thewater is returned to the same or a different water source.

[0010] As an alternative to running the pumped ground water in the openloop system directly to the coil of the small heat exchanger that alsoincludes the coils containing refrigerant, the heat pump may include anadditional heat exchanger (e.g., such as, a plate and frame or a shelland tube heat exchanger) that can be used to receive the ground waterpiped to the heat pump. The additional heat exchanger receives thepumped ground water on one side thereof and includes a closed loop pipeon the other side that is associated with a portion of the small heatexchanger that includes refrigerant in one set of coils thereof. Theclosed loop pipe may contain, for example, water and an anti-freeze typesolution (e.g., a solution containing a glycol component). The closedloop pipe containing water and anti-freeze solution extracts energy fromthe ground water piped to the additional heat exchanger. This open loopsystem including use of the additional heat exchanger is usually usedwhere the ground water is of poor quality and/or contains minerals thatcause corrosion, etc. The additional heat exchanger through which theground water is piped is less expensive to replace than the small heatexchanger containing the refrigerant.

[0011] Closed loop systems are generally of two types, horizontal andvertical. In a horizontal closed loop system, a series of horizontalpipes (e.g., high density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes) is placed in theground and connected to the heat pump apparatus such that a solutionflowing through the closed loop flows through a small heat exchangerinside the heat pump apparatus located next to the refrigerantcompressor, which is also inside the heat pump. The closed loop containsa solution (e.g., usually a water and anti-freeze solution (e.g., asolution containing a glycol component). As the solution flows throughthe closed loop, and as such, through the buried pipes in the ground,the solution extracts the thermal energy from the ground and transfersit to the small heat exchanger in the heat pump. Like the open loopsystem, the small heat exchanger of the heat pump includes coil pipescontaining the refrigerant (e.g., freon) that are wrapped with a coilcontaining the solution that is flowing in the closed loop. The solutionflowing in the closed loop that has been modified by the ground is usedto modify the temperature of the refrigerant in the coils of the smallheat exchanger of the heat pump apparatus.

[0012] A vertical closed loop system operates in substantially the samemanner as the horizontal pipe closed loop system with one exception. Inthe vertical closed loop system, the pipes are placed vertically inbored holes in the ground.

[0013] Generally, in such water source heat pump closed systems, in boththe vertical and the horizontal closed loops, water or awater/antifreeze mixture in the pipes remains within the pipes for thelife of the system.

[0014] With respect to both the open loop and closed loop systems, thegeothermal heat pump apparatus may be configured as a water to air,water source geothermal heat pump or a water to water, water sourcegeothermal heat pump. In the water to air, water source geothermal heatpump configuration, the heat pump is associated with a forced air systemthat distributes hot or cold air through a conventional duct system forboth supply and return air. In the water to water, water sourcegeothermal heat pump, the heat pump is associated with a distributionsystem that distributes heating and cooling through infloor radianttubes or air handlers with water coils. A water to water, water sourcegeothermal heat pump has the capability of heating water to 130 degreesFahrenheit or cooling to 14 degrees Fahrenheit.

[0015] Generally, a geothermal water to air, water source heat pumpoperates similarly to a conventional forced air furnace in terms of hotand cold air distribution for the system in which it is used. Forexample, air ducts and an air mover are used to distribute hot or coldair throughout a space. However, with a conventional furnace and airconditioner, the starting point is always the outside temperature,whether it be 10° below 0 or 90° above 0. This is also the case for airto air heat pumps. Such units do not function effectively intemperatures below 30°. Contrary to such systems, with a geothermalwater source heat pump, the starting point for such a thermal energyexchange system is the ground or groundwater temperature.

[0016] With respect to the use of a DX heat pump in a geothermal heatexchange system, a DX heat pump system, unlike a water source heat pumpsystem, uses a refrigerant closed loop including lines thereof placedeither horizontally or vertically in the ground. Instead of HDPE pipe,generally, copper pipe is used. As the refrigerant flows through thecopper ground pipes, the refrigerant extracts thermal energy from theearth and transfers it directly into the compressor of the heat pump.The problems associated with DX heat pump systems is the short life ofthe buried copper pipe, unless a sacrificial metal softer than thecopper is buried with the copper tubing.

[0017] In operation, for example, of a DX heat pump closed system, aheating cycle begins with the refrigerant flowing through the buriedloops where it absorbs thermal energy (e.g., heat) from the ground orgroundwater and evaporates to form a cooled gas (i.e., acting as anevaporator). The ground or groundwater in which the loops are buriedgive up heat as the refrigerant flows through the buried loops. Thegaseous refrigerant from the evaporator passes through conduit to acompressor, which compresses it, and raises its temperature andpressure.

[0018] The hot, compressed gas then flows to an air handler associatedwith an air distribution system (e.g., when an air distribution systemis used) which acts as a condenser in the heating mode. Here, airflowing across the condenser absorbs heat from the refrigerant andcarries it throughout the space being heated. As the refrigerantreleases its heat, the refrigerant condenses to form a liquid, whichthen flows through an expansion device that reduces its pressure and,consequently, lowers its temperature again. Finally, the refrigerantreenters the evaporator (e.g., including the buried piping loops), andthe cycle is repeated.

[0019] For cooling, the above process is reversed. The compressor sendsthe hot, dense gas directly to the buried piping loops (i.e., now actingas the condenser). The ground or groundwater absorbs thermal energy(e.g., heat) from the refrigerant in the buried loops. As therefrigerant gives up heat to the ground or groundwater, the refrigerantcools and condenses into a liquid. The cool liquid refrigerant flowsthrough an expansion device (e.g., using an orifice or a valve), whichfurther lowers its temperature and pressure. The cold liquid refrigerantthen flows through an air handler associated with the air distributionsystem (e.g., when an air distribution system is used) (i.e., which nowacts as the evaporator). For example, air from the space flows acrossthe evaporator tubing, giving up heat to the refrigerant inside thetubes. The cooler air is moved through the space via, for example, ductwork. The warmed refrigerant evaporates as it absorbs heat from the air,and then returns to the compressor to repeat the cycle.

[0020] As described above, many previously installed geothermal systemsare associated with a closed ground loop (e.g., closed ground loopsystems that comprise buried pipes circulating through the ground whichextract energy from the ground as fluid therein circulates). In northernclimates, the ground loops can get as cold as, for example, 28° in thewinter and as warm as 72° in the summer. Such systems, in many cases,function effectively, however, they are generally expensive to install.

[0021] Although various geothermal systems are available, such systemshave associated disadvantages. For example, the cost of installation forclosed or open loop systems is generally high, as well as areoperational costs. Further, for example, many of such systems aresomewhat complex. Likewise, open loop groundwater systems are difficultto get permitted by regulatory authorities and further, many closed loopsystems work inefficiently, and sometimes not at all, in warmerclimates.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0022] The present invention, as described below, addresses variousproblems described above and other problems of prior art systems ormethods which will become apparent to one skilled in the art from thedescription below. Generally, the present invention provides a thermalenergy exchange system for use with an existing conduit that is in aflooded state. The system includes a heat pump apparatus and a heatexchange apparatus. The heat pump apparatus includes an inlet and anoutlet. The heat exchange apparatus includes at least one fluid sourceconduit configured to replace a section of the existing conduit that isin the flooded state and further configured to permit at least a portionof a fluid that is in the existing conduit to flow therethrough.Further, the heat exchange apparatus includes at least one heat transferconduit having a fluid inlet and fluid outlet configured to be coupledto the inlet and outlet of the heat pump apparatus to form a closedloop. The at least one heat transfer conduit is further configured tocommunicate with the fluid source conduit for providing thermal energyexchange between the fluid flowing through the fluid source conduit anda fluid (e.g., water, water and anti-freeze mixture, and refrigerant)flowing in the closed loop.

[0023] In one embodiment of the thermal energy exchange system, theexisting conduit that is in the flooded state includes a conduitassociated with a potable water source. However, other fluid sources,such as wells, lakes, reclaimed water sources, etc., which are in apressurized state (i.e., a flooded state) may also be used.

[0024] In another embodiment of the system, the system further includesconnection conduit configured to connect the at least one heat transferconduit of the heat exchange apparatus to the heat pump apparatus toform the closed loop.

[0025] Yet further, the heat exchange apparatus may include, in anotherembodiment, an enclosure structure configured to enclose at least thefluid source conduit and the heat transfer conduit. Preferably, theenclosure structure includes a lockable access portion.

[0026] In yet another embodiment, the thermal energy exchange system mayinclude at least one monitoring device for monitoring at least oneparameter associated with the thermal energy exchange system. Further, aparameter controlled apparatus operable as a function of the at leastone monitored parameter may be provided. For example, such monitoringdevices may include one or more flow sensors, fluid detection devices,temperature sensors, detection devices, etc. Further, for example, theparameter controlled apparatus may include one or more devices such as adisplay, an indicator, an alarm, a shut-off valve, a recirculation pump,etc.

[0027] In yet still another embodiment of the thermal energy exchangesystem, the at least one fluid source conduit includes at least a firstpipe extending along an axis thereof. The first pipe includes an outersurface at a radial distance from the axis. The first pipe is configuredto replace the section of the existing conduit that is in a floodedstate. Further, the at least one heat transfer conduit includes a secondpipe having a smaller diameter than the first pipe and wrapped about theouter surface of the first pipe (e.g., the second pipe may be helicallywound about the first pipe). Further, the second pipe includes an outersurface, and at least a portion of the outer surface of the second pipemay include at least one flattened surface that is in direct contactwith a portion of the outer surface of the first pipe (e.g., forproviding thermal energy exchange between the first pipe and the secondpipe).

[0028] In another embodiment of the thermal energy exchange system, theexisting conduit, that is in a flooded state, includes a predetermineddiameter. In this embodiment, a plurality of fluid source conduits areused. Each fluid source conduit includes a diameter that is less thanthe predetermined diameter of the existing conduit. Further, each of theplurality of fluid source conduits is associated with a heat transferconduit that is configured to communicate with the associated fluidsource conduit for providing thermal energy exchange between a fluidflowing through the associated fluid source conduit and a fluid flowingin the closed loop. In this embodiment, the heat exchange apparatus mayfurther include one or more couplings to fluidly connect the pluralityof fluid source conduits to the existing conduit (e.g., using a manifoldcoupling).

[0029] The heat exchange apparatus described above may be providedseparately and apart from the thermal energy exchange system. Further,the associated elements and embodiments directed towards such a heatexchange apparatus may be also separable from the system.

[0030] Further, a method for use in installing a thermal energy exchangesystem, including a heat pump apparatus (e.g., a heat pump apparatusincluding an inlet and an outlet), is also described herein. The methodincludes providing a heat exchange apparatus. The heat exchangeapparatus includes at least one fluid source conduit configured toreplace a section of an existing conduit that is in a flooded state, andfurther configured to permit at least a portion of a fluid that is inthe existing conduit to flow therethrough. The heat exchange apparatusfurther includes at least one heat transfer conduit having a fluid inletand a fluid outlet configured to be coupled to the inlet and outlet ofthe heat pump apparatus to form a closed loop. The at least one heattransfer conduit is further configured to communicate with the fluidsource conduit for providing thermal energy exchange between the fluidflowing through the fluid source conduit and a fluid flowing in theclosed loop when the thermal energy exchange system is operational. Themethod further includes evacuating the fluid that is in the section ofthe existing conduit to be replaced and removing a section of theexisting conduit. The at least one fluid source conduit is fluidlycoupled to the existing conduit that is in the flooded state.

[0031] In various embodiments of the method, the method may furtherinclude connecting the at least one heat transfer conduit of the heatexchange apparatus to the heat pump apparatus to form the closed loop;enclosing the heat exchange apparatus in an enclosure structureconfigured with a lockable access portion; installing at least onemonitoring device for monitoring at least one parameter associated withthe thermal energy exchange system; manipulating at least one parametercontrolled apparatus as a function of at least one monitored parameter;and/or providing a plurality of fluid source conduits and using one ormore couplings to fluidly connect the plurality of fluid source conduitsto the existing conduit.

[0032] Further, another thermal energy exchange system for use with anexisting conduit that is in a flooded state is also provided. Theexisting conduit includes a conduit associated with a potable watersource. The thermal energy exchange system includes a heat pumpapparatus comprising an inlet and an outlet and a heat exchangeapparatus. The heat exchange apparatus includes at least one fluidsource conduit configured to replace a section of the existing conduitthat is in a flooded state and further configured to permit at least aportion of a fluid that is in the existing conduit to flow therethrough.The heat exchange apparatus further includes at least one heat transferconduit having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet configured to be coupledto the inlet and outlet of the heat pump apparatus to form a closedloop. The at least one heat transfer conduit is further configured tocommunicate with the fluid source conduit for providing thermal energyexchange between the fluid flowing through the fluid source conduit anda fluid flowing in the closed loop when the thermal energy exchangesystem is operational. Yet further, the heat exchange apparatus includesan enclosure structure configured to enclose the at least one fluidsource conduit and the at least one heat transfer conduit (e.g., theenclosure structure may include a lockable access portion). The thermalenergy exchange system further includes at least one connection conduitconfigured to connect the at least one heat transfer conduit of the heatexchange apparatus to the heat pump apparatus to form the closed loop.

[0033] Further, in one or more embodiments, one or more other HVACapparatus may be used in the thermal energy exchange system as analternate to the heat pump apparatus.

[0034] The above summary of the present invention is not intended todescribe each embodiment or every implementation of the presentinvention. Advantages, together with a more complete understanding ofthe invention, will become apparent and appreciated by referring to thefollowing detailed description and claims taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035]FIG. 1 is a general schematic diagram of an exemplary thermalenergy exchange system using a heat exchange apparatus that isconfigured to replace a section of an existing conduit that is in aflooded state in accordance with the present invention.

[0036]FIG. 2 is a general schematic diagram of an alternate embodimentof a heat exchange apparatus that includes a plurality of heatexchangers according to the present invention that may be used in athermal energy exchange system as shown generally in FIG. 1.

[0037]FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of one exemplary embodiment of athermal energy exchange system, such as that shown generally in FIG. 1.

[0038]FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an exemplary heat exchanger thatmay be used in the thermal energy exchange system shown generally inFIG. 1.

[0039]FIG. 5A is a cross-section view of the exemplary heat exchangershown in FIG. 4 taken at Line 5A-5A.

[0040]FIG. 5B is an end view of the exemplary heat exchanger shown inFIG. 4 and in the direction shown in FIG. 5A.

[0041]FIG. 6 is a block diagram of one exemplary installation method fora thermal energy exchange system, such as the system shown generally inFIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0042] The present invention shall generally be described with referenceto FIG. 1. Thereafter, various embodiments shall be described withfurther reference to FIGS. 2-6.

[0043]FIG. 1 shows a general diagram of a thermal energy exchange system10 according to the present invention. The thermal energy exchangesystem 10 includes a heat exchange apparatus 12 and a heat pumpapparatus 14 (or any other heating/ventilating/air conditioning (HVAC)apparatus also shown generally by reference number 14). The heat pumpapparatus 14 is coupled to the heat exchange apparatus 12 by one or moreconnection conduits 16. The heat pump apparatus 14 is associated with athermal energy distribution system 21.

[0044] In addition, the thermal energy exchange system 10 may employ any(HVAC) apparatus, as opposed to including a geothermal heat pump. Forexample, the closed loop including a fluid (e.g., refrigerant) thereinas described further below, may be provided at least in part by an HVACapparatus that includes at least one of an air handler that includeswater and/or DX coils, a furnace that includes heating and/or DX coils(e.g., gas, oil or electric), any suitable condenser, a cooling tower,and/or an air to air heat pump. In other words, the heat exchangeapparatus 12 described herein may be used with a closed loop containing,for example, refrigerant in combination with any HVAC apparatus that canutilize the thermal energy transferred to the refrigerant by the heatexchange apparatus 12.

[0045] The present invention uses a heat exchange apparatus includingone or more heat exchangers (e.g., heat exchanger 13 as shown in FIG. 1)configured to replace a section of an existing conduit 18 that is in aflooded state, as represented by flooded state fluid source 20 inFIG. 1. In other words, the heat exchange apparatus 12 operates in aflooded state configuration, as opposed to a gravity stateconfiguration.

[0046] As used herein, a conduit being in a flooded state refers to aconduit that is constantly (i.e., at all times) full as a result of apressurized fluid source (e.g., a forced water source). For example, thefluid source 20 (and, as such, the existing conduit 18 associatedtherewith) may be part of a city water main, wherein a pressurized citywater supply flows through the heat exchange apparatus 12 (e.g., theheat exchanger 13 replaces a section of a city water main conduit).Further, for example, the fluid source 20 may include a natural spring,well, or river, as long as there is a pressurized flow of fluid providedthereby that completely fills the fluid source conduit 15 of the heatexchange apparatus 12 that replaces a section of existing conduit (e.g.,a source that is being pumped or otherwise pressurized). Yet further,for example, other embodiments of the heat exchange apparatus 12 may beused with a lake or pond or other still water source, for example, withthe addition of a pump, to provide the pressurization of the fluidsource (e.g., a pump to provide a flow of water through the heatexchange apparatus 12 that completely fills the fluid source conduit 15thereof). One skilled in the art will understand that the existingconduit according to the present invention is in a flooded state exceptunder extraordinary circumstances, e.g., when the section of existingconduit is being replaced with the heat exchanger 12, when a water mainis malfunctioning, etc. As such, under normal circumstances, theexisting conduit is in a flooded state.

[0047] Yet further, the heat exchange apparatus 12 may be adapted to beused with a solar heat source system, wherein the heat exchangeapparatus 12 would be configured to replace a conduit section of thesolar heat source system in a manner such that, for example, a fluidheated by solar energy would be pumped through the heat exchangeapparatus 12 to allow for transfer of heat from the solar-heated fluid.

[0048] Further, one skilled in the art will recognize that variousfluids from which thermal energy may be exchanged can be used as thefluid of the flooded state fluid source 20. For example, the fluidsource 20 may include a fluid such as water, a refrigerant, or any otherheat transfer fluid that is provided under pressure through the heatexchange apparatus 12. Further, for example, the flooded state fluidsource 20 may be a reclaimed water line. However, such a reclaimed waterline would be one that is in a flooded state as opposed to one that isnot in a flooded state (e.g., a reclaimed water line that is pressurizedand that may, for example, be used for watering purposes, as opposed toa reclaimed water line that is not completely full and/or receives onlyperiodic water flow or a non-constant flow of fluid).

[0049] As will be readily understandable to one skilled in the art, theterm existing as used herein with the term conduit, does not necessarilyrefer only to previously existing conduit of a system (e.g., a watermain) that has already been installed and is replaced by a heatexchanger. Rather, the term existing also could refer to conduit thatwould normally be a part of a system (e.g., whether new or old) that isreplaced by the heat exchange apparatus 12 according to the presentinvention, wherein the conduit replaced was never actually installed butrather the heat exchanger was substituted for it during installation. Assuch, as used herein, the term replaced when referring to a section ofexisting conduit that is replaced may also mean the substitution of aheat exchanger for conduit that would have otherwise been installed butfor the employment of the heat exchanger.

[0050] Generally, the heat exchange apparatus 12 includes at least oneheat exchanger 13 that includes at least one fluid source conduit 15configured to replace a section of the existing conduit 18 that is in aflooded state and further configured to permit at least a portion offluid 20 that is in the existing conduit 18 to flow therethrough.Further, the heat exchange apparatus 12 includes at least one heattransfer conduit 17 having fluid inlet/outlet 24, 26 configured to becoupled to inlet/outlet 30, 32 of heat pump apparatus 14 to form aclosed loop, as represented by arrows 36. The at least one heat transferconduit 17 is configured to communicate with the at least one fluidsource conduit 15 for providing thermal energy exchange between thefluid 20 flowing through the fluid source conduit 15 and a fluid flowingin the closed loop 36 when the thermal energy exchange system 10 isoperational.

[0051] For example, in one embodiment, the heat exchange apparatusincludes an inner pipe or conduit through which the fluid 20 (e.g.,water of a pressurized water source) will flow. The inner pipe orconduit is wrapped (e.g., helically wound) by another heat transfer pipeor conduit (e.g., coiled about the inner pipe) through which a heattransfer fluid flows (e.g., through which a refrigerant or water flows).

[0052] In another embodiment, for example, the heat exchange apparatus12 includes at least a first pipe extending along an axis thereof. Thefirst pipe includes an outer surface at a radial distance from the axis.The first pipe is configured to replace the section of the existingconduit 18 that is in a flooded state. Further, the heat exchangeapparatus 12 includes a second pipe having a smaller diameter than thefirst pipe and wrapped about the outer surface of the first pipe. Thesecond pipe also includes an outer surface. At least a portion of theouter surface of the second pipe includes at least one flattened surfacethat is in direct contact with a portion of the outer surface of thefirst pipe. As such, the two pipes are in communication with one anotherand provide thermal energy exchange therebetween.

[0053] As used herein, when one conduit is referred to as being wrappedabout another conduit, such wrapping may be provided in any number ofdifferent configurations. For example, in one configuration, suchwrapping is performed such that the conduit is helically wound aroundthe other conduit, such as shown in FIG. 4. However, wrapping may alsorefer to other forms of providing communication between the heattransfer conduit 17 and the fluid source conduit 15, such as coiling theheat transfer conduit 17 longitudinally along the fluid source conduit15 as opposed to being wound helically about the fluid source conduit15. Although any number of different wrapping configurations may beused, preferably a helically wound configuration is used. With use of awrapped configuration, the length of conduit necessary to provideadequate thermal energy exchange can be reduced, for example, relativeto other types of closed looped geothermal systems (e.g., buried pipeloops).

[0054] The heat exchange apparatus 12 is configured such that the fluidflowing in the closed loop 36 never mixes with the fluid 20 flowingthrough conduit 18 (e.g., such fluid would have to go through two wallsof conduit to mix). Thus, contamination of the flooded state fluidsource 20 is prevented, providing for safe operation of the thermalenergy exchange system 10.

[0055] The heat exchange apparatus 12 is configured such that theflooded state fluid source (e.g., a flooded water supply) can passtherethrough (e.g., through the fluid source conduit 15), providing asubstantially even temperature in a constant manner (e.g.,uninterrupted) for use in thermal energy transfer. On the other hand,for example, many other heat exchangers conventionally used utilizestagnant or gravity heat sources which may fluctuate in their respectiveheat intensities. Further, the constant forced flow of fluid (e.g.,water through a city water main) allows for more rapid thermal energytransfer (e.g., heating or cooling) than conventional systems.

[0056] With further reference to FIG. 1, the fluid source conduit 15 isfluidly coupled to existing conduit 18 by one or more couplings 33, 35.For example, such couplings may include slip form couplings, bootfittings, clamped connections, or any other suitable coupling forproviding a fluid tight seal between the fluid source conduit 15 andexisting conduit 18.

[0057] The heat exchange apparatus 12 is fluidly coupled to the heatpump apparatus 14 by the connection conduit 16, as described above. Forexample, heat pump apparatus 14 includes inlet/outlet 30, 32 which arecoupled to the inlet/outlet 24, 26 by the connection conduit 16 (e.g.,supply and return lines). The connection conduit 16 (e.g., supply andreturn lines) may be any suitable conduit, for example, high densitypolyethylene (HDPE) pipe may be used for the supply and return lines ofthe closed loop 36 between the heat exchange apparatus 12 and the heatpump 14 or copper lines may be used in certain configurations with asacrificial metal positioned proximate thereto (e.g., in a DX heat pumpclosed loop system).

[0058] One or more suitable couplings 19 may be used to provide couplingof the connection conduit 16 to the inlet/outlet 24, 26 of the heatexchange apparatus 12 and the inlet/outlet 30, 32 of the heat pumpapparatus. Such couplings may include, for example, iron pipe size (IPS)trans fittings, slip form couplings, boot fittings, clamped connections,or any other coupling suitable for providing a fluid tight seal betweenthe connection conduit 16 and the inlet/outlets of the respective heatpump apparatus 14 and heat exchange apparatus 12.

[0059] The geothermal heat pump apparatus 14 may include any suitableapparatus that transfers thermal energy between the heat exchangeapparatus 12 and the distribution system 21. For example, the heat pumpapparatus 14 may be positioned within a building enclosure defining aspace to be heated or cooled. The heat pump apparatus 14 may be ofvarious configurations such that the heat pump apparatus 14 can use theheating or cooling provided by the heat exchange apparatus 12 (e.g., viathe cooling air ducts, interior water lines, etc., which form at least aportion of the distribution system 21). For example, the geothermal heatpump apparatus 14 may be one or more water source heat pumps or one ormore DX heat pumps.

[0060] With respect to the geothermal heat pump apparatus 14 including awater source geothermal heat pump, for example, the fluid in the closedloop 36 goes through a heat exchanger 23 inside the heat pump apparatus14 (e.g., located next to a refrigerant compressor, also inside the heatpump apparatus 14). The heat exchanger 23 associated with the heat pumpapparatus 14 includes, for example, coil pipes containing refrigerant(e.g., freon) that are wrapped with a coil containing the fluid flowingin the closed loop 36. Preferably, the closed loop 36 contains water ora water and anti-freeze solution (e.g., a solution including a glycolcomponent). As the fluid flows through the closed loop 36 (e.g., withuse of a circulation pump) and through the heat exchanger 12, the fluidextracts thermal energy from the fluid flowing through the heatexchanger 12 (e.g., the fluid flowing through the fluid source conduit15) and transfers it to the heat exchanger 23 in the heat pump apparatus14. In other words, the fluid flowing in the closed loop 36 is used tomodify the temperature of the refrigerant in coils of the heat exchanger23 of the heat pump apparatus 14. Generally, in such water source heatpump closed systems, the water or water/antifreeze solution remainswithin the closed loop for the life of the system. As would beascertainable by one of skilled in the art from the description herein,the flow of the closed loop in a heating mode would be opposite that fora cooling mode.

[0061] The geothermal heat pump apparatus 14 may be configured as awater to air, water source geothermal heat pump or a water to water,water source geothermal heat pump. In the water to air, water sourcegeothermal heat pump configuration, the heat pump is associated with aforced air system 21 that distributes hot or cold air through aconventional duct system for both supply and return air. In the water towater, water source geothermal heat pump, the heat pump is associatedwith a distribution system 21 that distributes heating and coolingthrough, for example, infloor radiant tubes or air handlers with watercoils.

[0062] Various configurations of water source heat pumps (e.g., bothwater to air and also, water to water) that may be used and/or modifiedfor use with the present invention are available from manufacturers suchas: Water Furnace International Inc. of Ft. Wayne, Ind. (e.g., such asheat pumps sold under the trade designation of Versatec, Premier, orSynergy); Climate Master, Inc. of Oklahoma City, Okla.; Florida HeatPump (FHP) Manufacturing, Inc. of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.; Mammoth Inc. ofChaska, Minn.; Carrier Corp. of Farmington, Conn.; Trane of Tyler, Tex.;and Maritime Geothermal Ltd. of Petitcodiac, New Brunswick, Canada(e.g., such as heat pumps sold under the trade designation of a NordicWater to Water, or a Nordic Water to Air heat pump).

[0063] With respect to the geothermal heat pump apparatus 14 including aDX geothermal heat pump, for example, the fluid in the closed loop 36,unlike a water source heat pump system, is a refrigerant. Further,instead of the connection conduit being, for example, HDPE pipe, thesupply and return lines (e.g., the connection conduit 16) is preferablycopper pipe. As the connection conduit 16 is relatively short inaccordance with the present invention as compared to most DX heat pumpclosed loop systems that include buried copper pipe, a much smallerquantity of sacrificial metal is needed to implement the present system(e.g., positioned proximate the copper tube to prevent degradationthereof). Generally, the sacrificial material may be any suitablematerial, such as a material that includes a metal softer than copper(e.g, zinc).

[0064] In operation, for example, in one embodiment, with use of a DXheat pump apparatus, a heating cycle may begin with a refrigerantflowing through the closed loop 36 including the heat transfer conduit17 of the heat exchange apparatus 12, where the refrigerant absorbsthermal energy (e.g., heat) from fluid 20 flowing through the fluidsource conduit 15 and evaporates to form a cooled gas (i.e., the heatexchanger 13 acting as an evaporator). The fluid 20 flowing through thefluid source conduit 15 gives up heat as the refrigerant flows throughthe closed loop. The gaseous refrigerant from the evaporator passesthrough conduit (e.g., connection conduit 16) to the heat pump apparatus14 which includes a compressor. The compressor compresses it, and raisesits temperature and pressure.

[0065] The hot, compressed gas then flows to an air handler associated,for example, with air distribution system 21 (e.g., when an airdistribution system is utilized) which acts as a condenser in theheating mode. Here, air flowing across the condenser absorbs heat fromthe refrigerant and carries it throughout the space being heated. As therefrigerant releases its heat, the refrigerant condenses to form aliquid, which then flows through, for example, an expansion device thatreduces its pressure and, consequently, lowers its temperature again.Finally, the refrigerant reenters the heat exchanger 13, and the cycleis repeated.

[0066] For cooling, the above process is reversed. The compressor sends(e.g., pumps) the hot, dense gas to the heat exchanger 13 (i.e., nowacting as the condenser). The fluid 20 flowing through the fluid sourceconduit 15 absorbs thermal energy (e.g., heat) from the refrigerant inthe closed loop. As the refrigerant gives up heat to the fluid 20flowing in the fluid source conduit 15, the refrigerant cools andcondenses into a liquid. The cool liquid refrigerant flows through, forexample, an expansion device (e.g., using an orifice or a valve), whichfurther lowers its temperature and pressure. The cold liquid refrigerantthen flows through an air handler associated with the air distributionsystem (e.g., when an air distribution system is used) (i.e., which nowacts as the evaporator). For example, air from the space flows acrossthe evaporator tubing, giving up heat to the refrigerant inside thetubes. The cooler air is moved through the space via, for example, ductwork. The warmed refrigerant evaporates as it absorbs heat from the air,and then returns to the compressor to repeat the cycle.

[0067] Various configurations of DX heat pumps that may be used and/ormodified for use with the present invention are available frommanufacturers such as: American Geothermal of Murfreesboro, Tenn.; ECRTechnologies of Lakeland, Fla. (e.g., such as heat pumps sold under thetrade designation of Earthlinked heat pumps); Hydro Delta ofMonroeville, Pa. (e.g., such as heat pumps sold under the tradedesignation of Yankee or Twin Line heat pumps); and Maritime GeothermalLtd. of Petitcodiac, New Brunswick, Canada (e.g., such as heat pumpssold under the trade designation of Nordic Triple Function).

[0068] The heat pump apparatus 14 may include various elements dependingupon the configuration in which it is being used. For example, the heatpump apparatus may include heat exchangers, reversing valves, meteringdevices, bypass valves, a compressor, etc. One skilled in the art willrecognize that the heat pump apparatus 14 may take one of various formsand the present invention is not limited by any listed or described heatpump apparatus herein or by any particular system operation descriptionprovided herein. Rather, the heat pump apparatus may include anyapparatus that transfers the thermal energy provided in the closed loopfrom the heat exchange apparatus 12, such as, for example, transfer ofthe thermal energy to a space, an object or structure that is to beheated or cooled (e.g., a transfer of thermal energy using heatexchanger 23 and the distribution system 21).

[0069] Generally, the closed loop 36 (i.e., formed with use of at leastportions of the heat pump apparatus 14, connection conduit 16, and heatexchange apparatus 12) contains any suitable heat transfer fluid (e.g.,suitable depending on the heat pump configuration). With use of a watersource heat pump apparatus, the fluid in the closed loop 36 includes,preferably, one of water or a water and anti-freeze mixture. Theanti-freeze component preferably includes a glycol component. The glycolcomponent provides both anti-freeze functionality and also enhances heattransfer in the system. With use of a DX heat pump apparatus, a suitablerefrigerant is used in the closed loop 36. For example, refrigerantssuch as R22 and R410A may be used within the closed loop 36.

[0070] However, although various fluids are listed herein, the presentinvention is not limited to any particular fluid or to any particularrefrigerant listed.

[0071] It will be recognized by one skilled in the art that theoperation of the system described herein may be modified and/or beperformed in many different ways depending upon the configuration of thesystem, and its varied components. Therefore, the operation describedherein is for illustrative purposes only and the present invention is inno manner limited to only the operation as described herein. It will berecognized by one skilled in the art that the heating or coolingprovided by the thermal energy exchange system 10 may be used in variousapplications. For example, defined volume spaces may be heated orcooled, objects may be heated or cooled (e.g., floors, swimming pools,etc.), as well as any other application where heating or cooling isused.

[0072]FIG. 2 shows a manifolded heat exchange apparatus 70 that may beused in a thermal energy exchange system 10, as shown generally in FIG.1.

[0073] For example, as shown in FIG. 1, heat exchange apparatus 12includes a single heat exchanger 13. As shown in FIG. 2, heat exchangeapparatus 70 includes a plurality of heat exchangers 72, 74, 76 providedin a manifold configuration.

[0074] Such a configuration may be used with an existing conduit 18 thatis in the flooded state and which includes a predetermined diameter thatis larger than the diameter of fluid source conduits used in theplurality of manifolded heat exchangers 72, 74, 76.

[0075] In other words, each fluid source conduit 73, 75, 77 of each heatexchanger 72, 74, 76 includes a diameter that is less than thepredetermined diameter of the existing conduit 18. Each of the pluralityof fluid source conduits 73, 75, 77 associated with a particular heatexchanger 72, 74, 76 is associated with a heat transfer conduit 83, 85,87 that is configured to communicate with the associated fluid sourceconduit 73, 75, 77 for providing thermal energy exchange between a fluid20 flowing through the associated fluid source conduit 73, 75, 77 and afluid flowing in a closed loop (e.g., closed loop 36 as shown in FIG. 1)of which the heat transfer conduits 83, 85, 87 are a part thereof.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 2, each of the three heat exchangers 72, 74, 76include a fluid source conduit 73, 75, 77, respectively. A 1:3 manifoldcoupling 78 is provided to fluidly couple existing conduit 18 to theheat exchangers 72, 74, 76 at a first end of the heat exchange apparatus70. Likewise, a 1:3 manifold coupling element 80 is provided to fluidlycouple the existing conduit 18 to the heat exchange apparatus 70 at theother end thereof.

[0077] The manifold coupling 78 may be of various configurations,including, for example, a larger diameter connection with three smallerdiameter reduction pipes, as well as any other suitable manifoldelement. Connections with a fluid tight seal between the manifoldcoupling 78 and the existing conduit 18 may be provided by any number ofone or more suitable fittings 82, such as iron pipe size (IPS) transfittings, slip form couplings, boot fittings, and clamped connections.Connections with a fluid tight seal between the manifold coupling 78 andthe fluid source conduits 73, 75, 77, may be provided by any number ofone or more suitable fittings 81, such as iron pipe size (IPS) transfittings, slip form couplings, boot fittings, and clamped connections.One skilled in the art will recognize that such fluid coupling may bethe same at the other end of the heat exchange apparatus 70 usingmanifold coupling 80.

[0078] In one configuration, for example, the manifolded heat exchangeapparatus 70 may be used with a 12-inch diameter water main 18. Withsuch a large diameter water main, and depending upon the necessarythermal energy transfer required for heat pump apparatus 14, three heatexchangers 72, 74, 76 (each having a four-inch diameter fluid sourceconduit 73, 75, 77) may be provided in a manifold configuration toreplace a section of the 12-inch water main 18. The manifold coupling 78can be connected to the 12-inch water main using a slip form fitting.Further, the manifold coupling 78 in such a configuration includes threefour-inch reduction pipes that may be connected to respective fluidsource conduits 73, 75, 77 also by way of slip form couplings. Thecoupling may be the same at the other end of the heat exchange apparatus70 using manifold coupling 80.

[0079] Further, the heat exchangers 72, 74, 76 each include a heattransfer conduit 83, 85, 87 associated therewith and for use in formingthe closed loop (e.g., a closed loop 36 such as described generally withreference to FIG. 1). The coupling of such heat transfer conduits 83,85, 87 into the closed loop may be provided by any number of differentconfigurations. For example, each heat transfer conduit 83, 85, 87 maybe coupled into separate closed loops associated with different heatpump apparatus. Further, for example, such heat transfer conduits 83,85, 87 may be coupled to a single return/supply line as shown in FIG. 2.For example, three half-inch diameter heat transfer conduits at theinlet/outlet 90, 92 thereof may be fluidly coupled to a 1½-inchsupply/return lines 94, 96 via suitable couplings 98, 99 asillustratively shown in FIG. 2.

[0080] One skilled in the art will recognize, that depending upon theconfiguration of the thermal energy exchange system including, forexample, the manifolded heat exchange apparatus configuration, themanifold coupling and the fittings used to provide a fluid tightconnection between fluid source conduits and the existing conduit 18will vary. Likewise, depending upon the configuration of the thermalenergy exchange system including, for example, the manifolded heatexchange apparatus configuration, the fittings and connections used toprovide a fluid tight connection between the heat transfer conduits andthe heat pump apparatus 14 will vary.

[0081] It will be recognized that the number of manifolded heatexchangers may vary and the present invention is clearly not limited tothe manifold configuration as shown in FIG. 2. Rather, the number ofheat exchangers utilized in the manifolded heat exchange apparatus 70will vary depending upon various factors such as, for example, thosedescribed herein (e.g., heat pump capacity, water flow, etc.).

[0082] Further, it will be recognized by those skilled in the art thatfor each application, the heat exchange apparatus is sized andconfigured based on various types of information. For example, such heattransfer apparatus configurations may depend on various factors, such assize of the water main, flow rate in the water main, water maintemperatures, the size and capacity of the heat pump apparatus 14, thetype of connection required by an entity in control of the existingconduit, the type of connections required by such an entity between theheat transfer conduit and the remainder of the closed loop, etc.

[0083]FIG. 3 shows one schematic diagram of an exemplary thermal energyexchange system 100 that includes a heat pump apparatus 104 (e.g., ormultiple heat pump apparatus) located within a dwelling space 105. Theheat pump apparatus 104 includes inlet/outlet 132, 134 coupled byconnection conduit 112 to inlet/outlet 124, 126 of a heat exchanger 103that forms a part of a heat exchange apparatus 102 to form a closedloop; the closed loop represented generally by the arrows 136.

[0084] The heat exchange apparatus 102, as shown in the exemplaryconfiguration of FIG. 3, is attached to a city water main (e.g., apressurized water source) as represented by existing conduit 138 andwater flow 120. The heat exchange apparatus 102 is located under thestreet with the buried city water main 138. This is representedgenerally by the showing of curb and gutter 108.

[0085] In other words, heat exchange apparatus 102 includes at least oneheat exchanger 103 (or multiple heat exchangers, if in a manifoldedconfiguration).

[0086] The heat exchanger 103 includes fluid source conduit 111 thatreplaces a section of (e.g., that is inserted into) the city water main138. For example, a section of the city water main 138 is cut out andreplaced by the heat exchanger 103, thereby allowing the city watersupply 120 to flow through the fluid source conduit 111 of the heatexchanger 103. The fluid source conduit 111 is fluidly coupled to thewater main 138 using couplings, such as coupling 141 to provide a fluidtight seal therebetween.

[0087] The heat exchanger 103 further includes a heat transfer conduit113 wrapped about the outer surface of the fluid source conduit 111, asshall be described, for example, with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5 herein.The heat transfer conduit 113 includes the inlet/outlet 124, 126 whichare coupled to the inlet/outlet 132, 134 of heat pump apparatus 104 toform the closed loop 136, as described herein, using connection conduit112.

[0088] The heat pump apparatus 104 (e.g., which may include a heatexchanger 107 if a water source heat pump is used) and an associateddistribution system 106, are substantially the same as that describedwith reference to FIG. I and shall not be described in further detailwith reference to FIG. 3. Likewise, connection conduit 112 issubstantially the same as described above with reference to FIG. 1.

[0089] The heat exchange apparatus 102, as shown in FIG. 3, is encasedin an enclosure structure 160 configured, at least in one embodiment, toenclose at least the fluid source conduit 111 and the heat transferconduit 113. Further, the enclosure structure 160, may also enclose anycoupling apparatus used to couple the fluid source conduit 111 to theexisting conduit 138 and/or any coupling apparatus used to couple theheat transfer conduit 113 to the connection conduit 112.

[0090] The enclosure structure 160 includes an access portion 161 thatallows restricted access into the interior of the enclosure structure160, for example, to service the heat exchange apparatus 102. The accessportion 161 to the enclosure structure 160 may be configured in variousmanners. Preferably, the access portion 161 is a lockable access. In oneembodiment, a manhole access lid would be used as part of the enclosurestructure 160. Such access products are conventionally available.

[0091] The enclosure structure 160 preferably is sized such that itencloses the heat exchanger 103 in addition to couplings 141, 142, 145used to fluidly couple the at least one fluid source conduit 111 to theexisting conduit 138. Various configurations of the enclosure structure160 may be used according to the present invention. For example, aconcrete enclosure may be used. Such a concrete enclosure may bepre-cast and positioned in place. Alternately, such a concrete enclosuremay be poured in place using forms defining the enclosure (e.g.,styrofoam forms). Further, for example, the enclosure may be constructedof other materials, such as, for example, steel or aluminum. In such acase, at least a portion of the enclosure is preferably constructed andplaced in position (e.g., four side walls of the structure may beprefabbed and positioned, with the cover being positioned later).

[0092] In one embodiment, the enclosure structure 160 is a five-sidedrectangular structure that includes four side walls and a top. Two ofthe opposing side walls have openings configured for receiving theexisting conduit 138 that is in the flooded state. The enclosurestructure 160 is placed over such existing conduit 138. Further, variousopenings for providing the return and supply lines to and from the heatexchange apparatus 102 are also defined in the enclosure structure. Onewill recognize that various modifications to the enclosure structure maybe made without negating the purpose of preventing unauthorized accessto the heat exchange apparatus 102.

[0093] As shown in FIG. 3, the thermal energy exchange system 100 mayinclude various other components. For example, a heat exchange apparatuswall failure alarm 139 may be used to detect leaks that may be presentwithin the enclosed structure 160. For example, the failure alarm 139may include a moisture sensor wired to an indicator, such as, forexample, an audible, visual, or the like indicator (e.g., a remoteflashing red light). In the event of a leak in the fluid source conduit111, a leak in the connection between the water main 138 and the fluidsource conduit 111, a leak in the heat transfer conduit 113, or a leakin the connection between the heat transfer conduit 113 and theconnection conduit 112, the sensor would detect moisture and set off theindicator. Many components that may be employed to carry out suchfunctions are available, such as low voltage sensors or othercomponents.

[0094] As the moisture sensor is to detect moisture within the enclosure160, the sensor would be positioned therein in a position suitable fordetecting such moisture, preferably on a lower side wall thereof abovethe bottom surface (e.g., gravel bottom). The indicator would beprovided at any suitable site for alerting appropriate personnel (e.g.,in the building or at street level).

[0095] Further, a contaminate detection device with an associated alarmrepresented generally by sensor 154 may be used to detect contaminationwithin the closed loop 136. For example, contamination from compressoroil in the closed loop may be detected. If such a leak is detected, analarm associated therewith, and/or a shut-off valve, may be activated toshutdown the system.

[0096] A flow meter 152 may also be provided on the closed loop 136 tomonitor the flow within the closed loop 136 and provide appropriateinformation as necessary (e.g., information to control the heat pump, topersonnel overseeing operation of the system, etc.). The flow meter 152may, for example, be attached to the inlet/outlet 134 of the closed loop136 at a location within the building and relatively close to the heatpump apparatus 104, whereby the flow of the fluid within the closed loop136 can be monitored. The fluid within the closed loop 136 is movedwithin the closed loop by one or more components within the heat pumpapparatus 104, and such further flow may be controlled thereby. Thefluid in the closed loop 136 preferably fills the entire closed loop andis under pressure, e.g., such as with use of a circulation pump, toprovide for flow therethrough.

[0097] Likewise, a flow meter 177 may be positioned on the fluid sourceconduit 111 of the heat exchanger 103 to monitor the water main flow.Information concerning such water main flow may be used as necessary byassociated personnel, or in the control of one or more other componentsof the system.

[0098] A water main recirculation pump 179 may also be used in thethermal energy exchange system 100. For example, the water mainrecirculation pump 179 may be controlled by an indication of low waterflow as measured by flow meter 177. The water main recirculation pump ispreferably positioned between the heat exchanger 103 and the existingconduit 138 (at either end of the heat exchange apparatus 102) with useof a suitable coupling device 145 (e.g., slip form coupling, bootfitting, and clamped connection) between the fluid source conduit 111and a first inlet/outlet of the pump 179, as well as coupling device 142(e.g., slip form coupling, boot fitting, and clamped connection) betweena second inlet/outlet of the pump 179 and the existing conduit 138. Thewater main recirculation pump 179 is preferably a water-lubricated waterpump.

[0099] Yet further, various temperature gauges may also be used in thethermal energy exchange system 100 to provide information about watertemperatures at various positions in the system 100. For example, onewater temperature gauge 183 may be used on the fluid source conduit 111to monitor water main temperatures. In addition, temperature gauges 189and 193 may be associated with the closed loop 136 (e.g., a temperaturegauge on the supply conduit and one on the return conduit between theheat pump apparatus 104 and the heat exchange apparatus 102). Such watertemperature gauges 189, 193 would provide information with respect tothe amount of thermal energy transfer from the fluid 120 flowing throughthe fluid source conduit 111 to the fluid flowing in the closed loop136.

[0100] It will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art thatvarious other components, such as monitoring devices or parametercontrolled apparatus such as that operable as a function of a monitoredparameter of the thermal energy exchange system 100, may be usedaccording to the present invention. One skilled in the art willrecognize that those listed herein is in no manner a complete listing ofall such components that may be used in the system. For example, otherapparatus, including displays for monitoring the system, alarms,shut-off switches, detection devices, etc., may be used according to thepresent invention.

[0101] The operation of the thermal energy exchange system 100 issubstantially equivalent to that described with reference to FIG. 1 andshall not be described again with reference to FIG. 3. However, ingeneral, the present invention allows for the flow of a fluid (e.g.,water when a water source heat pump is used, or a refrigerant if a DXheat pump is used) from the geothermal heat pump apparatus 104 throughthe closed loop 136 to the heat exchange apparatus 102, whereby the heatexchange apparatus 102 transfers heat from the city water supply 120(or, in the summer months, cooling from the water supply 120) to thefluid flowing in the closed loop 136. The fluid flowing in the closedloop 136 returns to the geothermal heat pump apparatus 104 whichtransfers that heat, or cooling, to provide a variety of building spaceconditioning functions with use of, for example, the distribution system106, such as described herein.

[0102] The present invention is more efficient and economical thanconventional apparatus in that it requires less conduit and uses aneasily and readily available heating and cooling source (that being, forexample, the city water main supply) in the embodiment shown in FIG. 3.Further, the present invention allows for the more rapid and eventransfer of thermal energy from the fluid source, such as the city watersupply 120 which is in a flooded state such that fluid flow isconstantly provided through the heat exchange apparatus 102. Further,the flooded state also reduces the need for cleaning, as the water mayflow rapidly and freely through the heat exchange apparatus 102 attimes, which may prevent build-up of residue along the inside of thefluid source conduit 111 of the heat exchanger 103.

[0103] The conduit connections of the thermal energy exchange system 100may be provided as relatively simple and straight connections, which, inmost part, eliminates many curves and bends that may weaken the conduit.In one embodiment, the system is installed below grade level. However,other installations, such as above ground level, are also contemplated.For example, by inserting an elbow down joint in both inlet and outletportions 132, 134 of the closed loop 136 near the heat pump apparatus104 and within the building 105, the closed loop 136 may exit thebuilding below grade.

[0104]FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of an exemplary heat exchanger 200that may be used in the heat exchange apparatus described herein withreference to FIGS. 1-3. The heat exchanger 200 includes a fluid sourceconduit 202 and a heat transfer conduit 204 in communication with thefluid source conduit 202 for providing thermal energy exchange betweenfluids carried within the respective conduits. The fluid source conduit202 includes a heat conductive pipe (e.g., a copper tube) extendingalong axis 201 (i.e., extending longitudinally). The heat conductivepipe can vary in diameter depending, for example, on the size of theexisting conduit with which the heat exchanger 200 is to be used (e.g.,the size of the water main or other water supply, the use ofmanifolding, etc.). The heat conductive pipe 202 includes an outersurface 210 at a radial distance from the axis 201.

[0105] The heat transfer conduit 204 includes a heat conductive pipe(e.g., a copper tube) that is wrapped about the outer surface 210 of thefluid source conduit 202 (e.g., the number of wraps may vary dependingon the application).

[0106] The heat transfer conduit (e.g., copper tube 204) includes anouter surface 230. At least a portion of the outer surface 230 of theheat transfer conduit 204 is flattened, as shown by reference numeral212 in FIG. 5A. The at least one flattened surface 212 is provided suchthat it is in direct contact with a portion of the outer surface 210 ofthe fluid source conduit 202 for providing effective thermal energyexchange between the fluid source conduit 202 and the heat transferconduit 204 (e.g., the inner copper tube and the outer copper tubewrapped thereabout).

[0107] As further shown in FIG. 5A, other portions of the heat transferconduit 204 are also flattened, as represented by reference numeral 215.In such a manner, each wrap of the heat transfer conduit 204 can bepositioned very close to the adjacent wraps with very little air gapbetween the wrapped conduit (e.g., outer copper pipe) and the outersurface 210 of the fluid source conduit 202. Such additional flattenedsurfaces 215 allow for a larger quantity of wraps within the same lengthof fluid source conduit 202 as compared to a configuration that wouldnot have such flattened surfaces.

[0108] The diameter of the heat transfer conduit 204 wrapped around theoutside of the fluid source conduit 202 can vary depending on the watervolume needed in the closed loop for the heat pump apparatus to which itis connected. In one particular embodiment, the outer copper tube ismachined onto the larger inner copper tube to achieve a tight fitting.This eliminates the need to solder the outer tube (e.g., the heattransfer conduit 204) to the inner tube (e.g., the fluid source conduit202). Use of large amounts of solder adversely affects the efficiency ofthe heat exchange between the fluid source conduit 202 and the heattransfer conduit 204. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5B, only a small solderconnection 220 is used to tack the heat transfer conduit 204 to thefluid source conduit 202 (e.g., the inner copper pipe) at each end 206,208 of the heat exchanger 200 as the heat transfer conduit 204 extendsor otherwise leaves the outer surface 210 of the fluid source conduit202.

[0109] In one embodiment, the inner fluid source conduit 202 is sized toaccommodate the size of the water main to which it is connected.Likewise, the outer tube (i.e., the heat transfer conduit 204) will besized to accommodate the volume of water needed for the heat pumpapparatus to which the heat exchanger 200 is connected. In other words,depending upon the capacity of the heat pump apparatus to which the heatexchanger 200 is connected, the size of the heat exchanger 200 willvary, for example, the length along axis 201 may vary, as well as thediameter of the conduits and the number of heat exchangers.

[0110] Preferably, according to the present invention, copper tubing isused to construct the heat exchanger 200. However, other conductivematerials capable and effective in the transfer of thermal energy mayalso be suitable. For example, materials such as stainless steel and thelike may also be used for providing heat exchanger 200.

[0111] As described herein, heat exchanger 200 may also be wrapped inalternative configurations. For example, instead of helically windingthe heat transfer conduit 204 about the outer surface 210 of the fluidsource conduit 202, wraps of the heat transfer conduit 204 may beprovided in a longitudinal manner parallel to the axis 201, or in anyother alternate wrapped manner.

[0112]FIG. 6 shows one exemplary embodiment of an installation method300 for installing one or more portions of a thermal energy exchangesystem, such as that shown in FIGS. 1-5. Reference numerals of systemcomponents, such as those shown in FIG. 1, will be used to describe theinstallation method 300.

[0113] Generally, the method 300 includes evacuating fluid that is inthe section of existing conduit 18 that is to be replaced (block 302).The section of existing conduit 18 is removed, as shown in block 304. Aheat exchanger including a fluid source conduit and at least one heattransfer conduit, such as that shown in FIG. 4, is fluidly coupled tothe existing conduit 18 that is in the flooded state (block 306). Forexample, fluid source conduit is coupled to existing conduit 18 at bothends of the heat exchange apparatus. Thereafter, a flow of fluid isprovided through the fluid source conduit (block 308). Connection ofheat transfer conduit to the heat pump apparatus 14, as well asinstallation of other associated apparatus, is thereafter performed(block 310).

[0114] In slightly more detail, the installation method 300, at least inone exemplary embodiment, can be performed in the following manner. Forexample, a water main trench may be evacuated at a predetermined lengthand width to expose a water main. Another trench is excavated from thewater main trench to a building for placement of supply and return linesbetween a heat pump apparatus in a building and the heat exchangerapparatus that is replacing a section of the water main. One or moreportions of an enclosure structure is then provided in the first trench.For example, a prefabricated enclosure structure may be placed withinthe water main trench or, for example, the side walls of a concreteenclosure structure may be formed and poured. The enclosure may bepositioned at various times during the installation process.

[0115] The water main may be turned off at the closest two points towhere the heat exchanger is to replace the removed section of waterline. In other words, the fluid in the section of existing conduit to bereplaced is evacuated. As an alternate to turning off the water, abypass saddle tap could be used.

[0116] A section of the water main is cut and removed for insertion ofthe heat exchanger. The fluid source conduit or conduits of the heatexchange apparatus are connected to the city water main (e.g., theexisting conduit) with a connection such as, for example, a slip formconnection. Such connections are made at each end of the heat exchanger.If a recirculation pump is required or desired, it is installed betweenthe connection used to couple the heat exchanger to the existing conduitand the heat exchanger itself. The fluid source conduit is then testedby turning the water main on and checking for any leaks in theconnections.

[0117] The pipes for the supply and return lines (e.g., connectionconduit) are placed in the trench between the heat pump apparatus andthe heat exchanger to connect the heat transfer conduit of the heatexchanger with the heat pump apparatus to form the closed loop. Suchconnections may be accomplished with transition fittings (e.g., an IPStrans fitting). Again, such connections may be tested, for example,using an air test of the heat transfer conduit and the supply and returnlines.

[0118] Thereafter, various associated elements may be installed. Forexample, flow meters may be installed by attaching one of the flowmeters to the fluid source conduit and another to the heat transferconduit or other portion of the closed loop. Further, temperature gaugesmay be attached to the heat transfer conduit at both the supply side andreturn side of the closed loop. A moisture sensor may be installed inthe enclosure structure, and an alarm or indicator associated with themoisture sensor may be installed in a suitable location (e.g., a remotelocation readily visible from the street). The moisture sensor is thenconnected to the indicator.

[0119] With the enclosure structure in place, a fill material (e.g.,gravel) may be placed in the bottom of the enclosure structure. The topof the enclosure structure may be poured or placed thereon with anopening for a manhole access or some other lockable access portion. Thetrenches are back-filled and compacted. If the water main was located ina street, the street opening would be replaced with concrete or asphaltand reinforced, as necessary.

[0120] With the heat exchange apparatus in position, along with portionsof the connection conduit, the supply and return lines to the heatexchanger can be extended to inside the building for connection to theheat pump apparatus positioned therein. At least in one embodiment, theconnection conduit for forming the closed loop is connected tocirculation pumps associated with the heat pump, and the circulationpumps are connected as required by the heat pump apparatus. Further, theheat pump is coupled to an associated heating and cooling distributionsystem (e.g., duct work or radiant tubes, etc.), and all furtherelectrical and/or temperature sensing devices (e.g., thermostats) areconnected to the geothermal heat pump apparatus for operation thereof.

[0121] The preceding described embodiments are illustrative of thepractice of the invention. It is to be understood, therefore, that otherexpedients known to those skilled in the art or disclosed herein may beemployed without departing from the invention or the scope of theappended claims. For example, various apparatus or steps of oneembodiment described herein may be used with one or more otherembodiments described herein to form various combinations of methods,systems, or apparatus contemplated by the present invention. Further,for example, various heat pump apparatus configurations (as well asvarious distribution systems) may be used with the heat exchangerconfigurations described herein. In addition, the end object or spaceaffected by the transfer of thermal energy according to the presentinvention may be varied, and is not limited to only heating or coolingof a particular defined volume. As such, the present invention includeswithin its scope other methods, systems and apparatus for implementingand using the invention described herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. A thermal energy exchange system for use with anexisting conduit that is in a flooded state, the system comprising: aheat pump apparatus comprising an inlet and an outlet; and a heatexchange apparatus, wherein the heat exchange apparatus comprises: atleast one fluid source conduit configured to replace a section of theexisting conduit that is in a flooded state and further configured topermit at least a portion of a fluid in the existing conduit to flowtherethrough, and at least one heat transfer conduit having a fluidinlet and fluid outlet configured to be coupled to the inlet and outletof the heat pump apparatus to form a closed loop, wherein the at leastone heat transfer conduit is further configured to communicate with thefluid source conduit for providing thermal energy exchange between thefluid flowing through the fluid source conduit and a fluid flowing inthe closed loop.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the existing conduitthat is in the flooded state comprises a conduit associated with apotable water source.
 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the systemfurther comprises connection conduit configured to connect the at leastone heat transfer conduit of the heat exchange apparatus to the heatpump apparatus to form the closed loop.
 4. The system of claim 1,wherein the heat exchange apparatus further comprises an enclosurestructure configured to enclose at least the at least one fluid sourceconduit and the at least one heat transfer conduit.
 5. The system ofclaim 4, wherein the enclosure structure comprises a lockable accessportion.
 6. The system of claim 4, wherein the system further comprises:at least one monitoring device for monitoring at least one parameterassociated with the thermal energy exchange system; and a parametercontrolled apparatus operable as a function of the at least onemonitored parameter.
 7. The system of claim 6, wherein the at least onemonitoring device comprises at least one of a flow sensor, a fluiddetection device, a temperature sensor, and a contaminant detectiondevice.
 8. The system of claim 6, wherein the parameter controlledapparatus comprises at least one of a display, an indicator, an alarm, ashut off switch, and a recirculation pump.
 9. The system of claim 1,wherein the at least one fluid source conduit comprises at least a firstpipe extending along an axis thereof, wherein the first pipe comprisesan outer surface at a radial distance from the axis, wherein the firstpipe is configured to replace the section of the existing conduit thatis in the flooded state, and further wherein the at least one heattransfer conduit comprises a second pipe having a smaller diameter thanthe first pipe and wrapped about the outer surface of the first pipe,wherein the second pipe comprises an outer surface, and further whereinat least a portion of the outer surface of the second pipe comprises atleast one flattened surface that is in direct contact with a portion ofthe outer surface of the first pipe for providing thermal energyexchange between the first pipe and the second pipe.
 10. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the existing conduit that is in the flooded statecomprises a predetermined diameter, wherein the at least one fluidsource conduit comprises a plurality of fluid source conduits, whereineach fluid source conduit comprises a diameter that is less than thepredetermined diameter of existing conduit, and further wherein each ofthe plurality of fluid source conduits is associated with a heattransfer conduit that is configured to communicate with the associatedfluid source conduit for providing thermal energy exchange between afluid flowing through the associated fluid source conduit and a fluidflowing in the closed loop.
 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the heatexchange apparatus further comprises one or more couplings to fluidlyconnect the plurality of fluid source conduits to the existing conduit.12. The system of claim 1, wherein the fluid flowing in the closed loopis a refrigerant.
 13. The system of claim 1, wherein the fluid flowingin the closed loop is water or a water and anti-freeze mixture.
 14. Aheat exchange apparatus for use with an existing conduit that is in aflooded state and a heat pump apparatus of a thermal energy exchangesystem, wherein the heat exchange apparatus comprises: at least onefluid source conduit configured to replace a section of the existingconduit that is in the flooded state and further configured to permit atleast a portion of a fluid that is in the existing conduit to flowtherethrough; and at least one heat transfer conduit having an inlet andoutlet configured to be coupled to the heat pump apparatus to form aclosed loop therewith, wherein the at least one heat transfer conduit isfurther configured to communicate with the fluid source conduit forproviding thermal energy exchange between the fluid flowing through thefluid source conduit and a fluid flowing in the closed loop.
 15. Theapparatus of claim 14, wherein the apparatus further comprises anenclosure structure configured to enclose at least the at least onefluid source conduit and the at least one heat transfer conduit.
 16. Theapparatus of claim 15, wherein the enclosure structure comprises alockable access portion.
 17. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein theapparatus further comprises at least one monitoring device formonitoring at least one parameter associated with the thermal energytransfer system.
 18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the at least onemonitoring device comprises at least one of a flow sensor, a fluiddetection device, a temperature sensor, and a contaminant detectiondevice.
 19. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the at least one fluidsource conduit comprises at least a first pipe extending along an axisthereof, wherein the first pipe comprises an outer surface at a radialdistance from the axis, wherein the first pipe is configured to replacethe section of the existing conduit that is in the flooded state, andfurther wherein the at least one heat transfer conduit comprises asecond pipe having a smaller diameter than the first pipe and wrappedabout the outer surface of the first pipe, wherein the second pipecomprises an outer surface, and further wherein at least a portion ofthe outer surface of the second pipe comprises at least one flattenedsurface that is in direct contact with a portion of the outer surface ofthe first pipe for providing thermal energy exchange between the firstpipe and the second pipe.
 20. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein theexisting conduit that is in the flooded state comprises a predetermineddiameter, wherein the at least one fluid source conduit comprises aplurality of fluid source conduits, wherein each fluid source conduitcomprises a diameter that is less than the predetermined diameter ofexisting conduit, and further wherein each of the fluid source conduitsis associated with a heat transfer conduit that is configured tocommunicate with the associated fluid source conduit for providingthermal energy exchange between a fluid flowing through the associatedfluid source conduit and a fluid flowing in the closed loop.
 21. Theapparatus of claim 20, wherein the apparatus further comprises one ormore couplings to fluidly connect the plurality of fluid source conduitsto the existing conduit when replaced thereby.
 22. A method for use ininstalling a thermal energy exchange system comprising a heat pumpapparatus, wherein the heat pump apparatus comprises an inlet and anoutlet, wherein the method comprises: providing a heat exchangeapparatus, wherein the heat exchange apparatus comprises: at least onefluid source conduit configured to replace a section of the existingconduit that is in the flooded state and further configured to permit atleast a portion of a fluid that is in the existing conduit to flowtherethrough, and at least one heat transfer conduit having a fluidinlet and fluid outlet configured to be coupled to the inlet and outletof the heat pump apparatus to form a closed loop, wherein the at leastone heat transfer conduit is further configured to communicate with thefluid source conduit for providing thermal energy exchange between thefluid flowing through the fluid source conduit and a fluid flowing inthe closed loop when the thermal energy exchange system is operational;evacuating the fluid that is in the section of the existing conduit tobe replaced; removing the section of the existing conduit; and fluidlycoupling the at least one fluid source conduit to the existing conduitthat is in the flooded state.
 23. The method of claim 22, wherein theexisting conduit that is in the flooded state comprises a conduitassociated with a potable water source.
 24. The method of claim 22,wherein the method further comprises connecting the at least one heattransfer conduit of the heat exchange apparatus to the heat pumpapparatus to form the closed loop.
 25. The method of claim 22, whereinthe method further comprises enclosing the heat exchange apparatus in anenclosure structure configured with a lockable access portion.
 26. Themethod of claim 22, wherein the method further comprises: installing atleast one monitoring device for monitoring at least one parameterassociated with the thermal energy exchange system; and manipulating atleast one parameter controlled apparatus as a function of the at leastone monitored parameter.
 27. The method of claim 22, wherein fluidlycoupling the at least one fluid source conduit to the existing conduitthat is in the flooded state comprises: providing a plurality of fluidsource conduits, wherein each fluid source conduit comprises a diameterthat is less than a predetermined diameter of the existing conduit, andfurther wherein each of the fluid source conduits is associated with aheat transfer conduit that is configured to communicate with theassociated fluid source conduit for providing thermal energy exchangebetween a fluid flowing through the associated fluid source conduit anda fluid flowing in the closed loop; and using one or more couplings tofluidly connect the plurality of fluid source conduits to the existingconduit.
 28. A thermal energy exchange system for use with an existingconduit that is in a flooded state, wherein the existing conduitcomprises a conduit associated with a potable water source, the systemcomprising: a heat pump apparatus comprising an inlet and an outlet; anda heat exchange apparatus, wherein the heat exchange apparatuscomprises: at least one fluid source conduit configured to replace asection of the existing conduit that is in the flooded state and furtherconfigured to permit at least a portion of a fluid that is in theexisting conduit to flow therethrough, at least one heat transferconduit having a fluid inlet and fluid outlet configured to be coupledto the inlet and outlet of the heat pump apparatus to form a closedloop, wherein the at least one heat transfer conduit is furtherconfigured to communicate with the fluid source conduit for providingthermal energy exchange between the fluid flowing through the fluidsource conduit and a fluid flowing in the closed loop when the thermalenergy exchange system is operational, an enclosure structure configuredto enclose at least the at least one fluid source conduit and the atleast one heat transfer conduit, wherein the enclosure structurecomprises a lockable access portion; and at least one connection conduitconfigured to connect the at least one heat transfer conduit of the heatexchange apparatus to the heat pump apparatus to form the closed loop.29. The system of claim 28, wherein the system further comprises: atleast one monitoring device for monitoring at least one parameterassociated with the thermal energy exchange system; and a parametercontrolled apparatus operable as a function of the at least onemonitored parameter.
 30. The system of claim 29, wherein the at leastone monitoring device comprises at least one of a flow sensor, a fluiddetection device, a temperature sensor, and a contaminant detectiondevice.
 31. The system of claim 29, wherein the parameter controlledapparatus comprises at least one of a display, an indicator, an alarm, ashut off switch, and a recirculation pump.
 32. The system of claim 28,wherein the at least one fluid source conduit comprises at least a firstpipe extending along an axis thereof, wherein the first pipe comprisesan outer surface at a radial distance from the axis, wherein the firstpipe is configured to replace the section of the existing conduit thatis in the flooded state, and further wherein the at least one heattransfer conduit comprises a second pipe having a smaller diameter thanthe first pipe and wrapped about the outer surface of the first pipe,wherein the second pipe comprises an outer surface, and further whereinat least a portion of the outer surface of the second pipe comprises atleast one flattened surface that is in direct contact with a portion ofthe outer surface of the first pipe for providing thermal energyexchange between the first pipe and the second pipe.
 33. The system ofclaim 28, wherein the existing conduit that is in the flooded statecomprises a predetermined diameter, wherein the at least one fluidsource conduit comprises a plurality of fluid source conduits, whereineach fluid source conduit comprises a diameter that is less than thepredetermined diameter of existing conduit, and further wherein each ofthe fluid source conduits is associated with a heat transfer conduitthat is configured to communicate with the associated fluid sourceconduit for providing thermal energy exchange between a fluid flowingthrough the associated fluid source conduit and a fluid flowing in theclosed loop.
 34. The system of claim 33, wherein the heat exchangeapparatus further comprises one or more couplings to fluidly connect theplurality of fluid source conduits to the existing conduit.
 35. Thesystem of claim 28, wherein the fluid flowing in the closed loop is arefrigerant.
 36. The system of claim 28, wherein the fluid flowing inthe closed loop is water or a water and anti-freeze mixture.
 37. Athermal energy exchange system for use with an existing conduit that isin a flooded state, the system comprising: an HVAC apparatus comprisingan inlet and an outlet; and a heat exchange apparatus, wherein the heatexchange apparatus comprises: at least one fluid source conduitconfigured to replace a section of the existing conduit that is in aflooded state and further configured to permit at least a portion of afluid in the existing conduit to flow therethrough, and at least oneheat transfer conduit having a fluid inlet and fluid outlet configuredto be coupled to the inlet and outlet of the heat pump apparatus to forma closed loop, wherein the at least one heat transfer conduit is furtherconfigured to communicate with the fluid source conduit for providingthermal energy exchange between the fluid flowing through the fluidsource conduit and a fluid flowing in the closed loop.
 38. The system ofclaim 37, wherein the fluid flowing in the closed loop is a refrigerant.39. The system of claim 37, wherein the fluid flowing in the closed loopis water or a water and anti-freeze mixture.